Antenna, communication module, electronic device, and antenna design method and apparatus

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application relate to the technical field of antennas, and provide an antenna, a communication module, an electronic device, and an antenna design method and apparatus, for use in mitigating the problems of high structural complexity and low aperture utilization of shared-aperture antennas. The antenna comprises: at least two antenna units and a metasurface. All the antenna units operate within a same aperture plane. The operating frequency bands of at least two antenna units among all the antenna units are different. In addition, the beam transceiving directions of all the antenna units are oriented toward the metasurface.

Description

Antennas, communication modules, electronic devices, antenna design methods and devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411509393.9, filed on October 25, 2024, entitled "Antenna, Communication Module, Electronic Equipment, Antenna Design Method and Apparatus", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of antenna technology, and more particularly to antennas, communication modules, electronic devices, antenna design methods and apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] With the explosive growth of communication demands and scenarios, the number of frequency bands integrated into communication systems is increasing, and multi-band collaborative operation has become an inevitable trend in the future development of communication systems. However, increasing the number of antennas based on the number of frequency bands used creates a conflict between the need for increased frequency bands and the need for miniaturization of communication systems. Therefore, a common-aperture antenna can be used, integrating multiple wavelengths or functions into a single aperture through the rational layout of multi-band antenna elements, feeding structures, and isolation networks. However, to avoid obstruction between antenna elements, which would lead to beam blocking, the antenna elements of different frequency bands within a common-aperture antenna are usually staggered, failing to fully utilize the entire antenna aperture. Due to the structural differences between antenna elements of different frequency bands, the internal structure of a common-aperture antenna is also typically quite complex. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides an antenna, a communication module, an electronic device, an antenna design method, and an apparatus to improve the problems of high structural complexity and low aperture utilization of common-aperture antennas.

[0005] A first aspect of this application provides an antenna comprising: a metasurface and at least two antenna elements. All antenna elements operate within the same aperture plane. At least two of the antenna elements operate in different frequency bands. Each antenna element can function as both a transmitter and a receiver. When acting as a transmitter, the antenna element transmits an electromagnetic wave beam. When acting as a receiver, the antenna element receives an electromagnetic wave beam. The beam transmission and reception directions of the antenna elements are directed towards the metasurface.

[0006] In this way, in the antenna provided by the embodiments of this application, at least two antenna elements operate at different frequency bands, and all antenna elements operate within the same aperture plane; therefore, this antenna is a multi-frequency common-aperture antenna. By integrating antenna elements operating in multiple frequency bands within the same aperture plane, multi-frequency collaborative operation is achieved. In traditional multi-frequency common-aperture antennas, directly embedding antenna elements operating independently in different frequency bands within the antenna would cause obstruction and electromagnetic interference between antenna elements. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the differences between antenna elements and arrange them in a staggered manner to avoid obstruction. Decoupling technology and isolation structures must also be used in the antenna to prevent electromagnetic interference between antenna elements. The staggered arrangement of antenna elements prevents traditional common-aperture antennas from fully utilizing the entire antenna aperture, and the introduction of isolation structures increases the structural complexity of the antenna. The antenna provided by the embodiments of this application uses a metasurface to control the propagation direction of the electromagnetic wave beam received or transmitted by the antenna elements. After being controlled by the metasurface, the electromagnetic waves received or transmitted by the antenna elements will not cause obstruction or electromagnetic interference, thus improving the aperture utilization rate of the antenna. At this point, independently operating antenna elements can be directly integrated into a single antenna without further consideration of electromagnetic compatibility and optimization, thus simplifying the antenna structure.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the metasurface includes a first surface and a second surface. The first surface faces the beam transmission / reception direction of the antenna element. The phase distribution of the metasurface satisfies the condition that when beams of different frequencies propagate from the first surface to the second surface with different incident deflection angles, the exit deflection angles become the same. Here, the incident deflection angle and the exit deflection angle are the angles between the beam and a first direction, which is perpendicular to the metasurface. Thus, when the phase distribution of the metasurface satisfies the above condition, when the antenna element is a transmitting element, different antenna elements operating in different frequency bands will emit electromagnetic wave beams with different tilt angles (i.e., incident deflection angles). These electromagnetic wave beams with different tilt angles, after entering the metasurface from the first surface, will exit from the second surface with the same tilt angle (i.e., exit deflection angle). This achieves the control of the electromagnetic waves emitted by the antenna element by the metasurface. In an antenna with a transmitting function, using a metasurface to control the electromagnetic waves emitted by antenna elements operating in different frequency bands allows electromagnetic waves with different tilt angles emitted by the antenna elements to be emitted from the antenna with the same tilt angle. Unidirectional multi-frequency transmission enables the antenna to support multiple communication standards simultaneously or alternately, eliminating the need for users to manually adjust the antenna direction, thus improving user experience and system flexibility.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the metasurface includes a first surface and a second surface. The first surface faces the beam transmission and reception direction of the antenna element. The phase distribution of the metasurface satisfies the following condition: when beams of different frequencies propagate from the second surface to the first surface with the same incident deflection angle, the exit deflection angles become different. Here, the incident deflection angle and the exit deflection angle are the angles between the beam and a first direction, which is perpendicular to the metasurface. Thus, when the phase distribution of the metasurface satisfies the above condition, when a beam of electromagnetic waves of different frequencies enters the metasurface from the second surface with the same tilt angle (i.e., incident deflection angle), it will exit from the first surface with different tilt angles (i.e., exit deflection angles). At this time, the antenna element acts as a receiving element, and different antenna elements operating in different frequency bands will receive electromagnetic wave beams with different tilt angles according to their respective frequencies. This achieves the modulation of the electromagnetic waves received by the antenna element by the metasurface. In an antenna with receiving capabilities, using a metasurface to modulate electromagnetic waves of different frequency bands received from the same direction allows antenna elements operating in different frequency bands to receive electromagnetic waves of the corresponding frequency bands. Unidirectional multi-frequency reception enables the antenna to support multiple communication standards simultaneously or alternately, eliminating the need for users to manually adjust the antenna direction, thus improving user experience and system flexibility.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the antenna includes two antenna elements, a first antenna element and a second antenna element. The first antenna element operates in a first operating frequency band, and the second antenna element operates in a second operating frequency band. The first beam transmitted and received by the first antenna element forms a first angle θ between the first surface and a first direction. i1 The second beam transmitted and received by the second antenna element forms a second angle θ between the first surface and the first direction. i2 Wherein, the first direction is perpendicular to the metasurface, and the first included angle θ i1 The second included angle θ i2 The difference lies in the antenna's frequency band and aperture. This design allows the antenna to operate simultaneously in both the first and second frequency bands. When both the first and second antenna elements are transmitting antennas, the first and second beams are incident on the first surface of the metasurface at a first angle and a second angle, respectively. When both the first and second antenna elements are receiving elements, the first and second beams exit from the first surface of the metasurface at a first angle and a second angle, and are received by the first and second antenna elements, respectively. In other words, the first and second antenna elements do not block each other's path.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the phase distribution φ(x) of the metasurface in the x-direction satisfies: Where k1 is the wavenumber of the first operating frequency band, and the x-direction is perpendicular to the first direction. Thus, a metasurface satisfying this phase distribution can be used with only the first antenna element in the first operating frequency band, and the first included angle is θ.i1 The direction of the electromagnetic wave beam transmitted and received by the antenna element in the antenna is controlled.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the first beam forms a third angle θ with the second surface and the first direction. t1 The second beam forms a fourth angle θ with the first direction on the second surface. t2 Among them, the third included angle θ t1 The angle θ between the fourth and fourth angles t2 The same applies. Thus, when both the first and second antenna elements are transmitting antennas, the first and second beams will exit from the second surface of the metasurface at the third and fourth included angles, respectively. When both the first and second antenna elements are receiving elements, the first and second beams will enter the second surface of the metasurface at the third and fourth included angles, and be received by the first and second antenna elements respectively after passing through the metasurface. In other words, the first and second antenna elements will not block each other.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the first included angle θ i1 The second included angle θ i2 satisfy: The third included angle θ t1 and the fourth included angle θ t2 Satisfy: θ t1 =θ t2 Where k1 is the wavenumber of the first operating frequency band, and λ 02 The wavelength is the second operating frequency band. When the first and second included angles do not satisfy the above characteristics, the first and second antenna elements need to be controlled using metasurfaces with two different phase distributions. The phases distributed on the two metasurfaces are superimposed to obtain a metasurface that can simultaneously control both the first and second antenna elements. Therefore, when the first and second included angles satisfy the above characteristics, the second antenna element can share the same phase distribution metasurface with the first antenna element for electromagnetic wave beam direction control.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the first beam is parallel to the first direction on the second surface, and the second beam is parallel to the first direction on the second surface. That is, sinθ t1 =sinθ t2 =0. In this way, the first and second beams are perpendicular to the second surface of the metasurface, which helps to maximize the aperture utilization of the antenna, making the antenna more efficient in receiving or transmitting electromagnetic waves.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the antenna further includes a third antenna element. The third antenna element operates in a different frequency band than both the first and second antenna elements. The third beam transmitted and received by the third antenna element forms a fifth angle θ between the first surface and the first direction.i3 The third beam has a sixth angle θ between the second surface and the first direction. t3 Among them, the fifth included angle θ i3 Angle θ with the first i1 The second included angle θ i2 Different, the sixth included angle θ t3 The angle θ with the third t1 and the fourth included angle θ t2 The same applies. This makes the antenna a tri-band, common-aperture antenna. The antenna can operate simultaneously in the first, second, and third operating frequency bands. The metasurface can control the propagation direction of the electromagnetic wave beams received or transmitted by the first, second, and third antenna elements, avoiding mutual obstruction between them and improving the antenna aperture utilization rate.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the antenna further includes a fourth antenna element. The fourth antenna element operates in the same frequency band as the first antenna element. The fourth beam transmitted and received by the fourth antenna element forms a seventh angle θ between the first surface and the first direction. i4 The fourth beam has an eighth angle θ between the second surface and the first direction. t4 Among them, the seventh included angle θ i4 Angle θ with the first i1 The second included angle θ i2 Different, the eighth included angle θ t4 The angle θ with the third t1 and the fourth included angle θ t2 The same applies. This allows the antenna to operate simultaneously in multiple frequency bands. The metasurface can control the propagation direction of the electromagnetic wave beams received or transmitted by multiple antenna elements, preventing mutual obstruction between antenna elements and improving antenna aperture utilization. When the beam transmission and reception directions of the fourth antenna element and the first antenna element are the same, the efficiency of the antenna in transmitting and receiving beams in the first operating frequency band can be enhanced. When the beam transmission and reception directions of the fourth antenna element and the first antenna element are different, the antenna becomes a multi-frequency common-aperture transceiver antenna, integrating the receiving and transmitting units within the same aperture, thus enabling simultaneous transmission and reception and expanding the antenna's functionality.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the first antenna element is used to transmit the first beam, and the fourth antenna element is used to receive the fourth beam. In this way, the antenna is a multi-frequency common-aperture transceiver antenna, integrating the receiving and transmitting units within the same aperture, thereby enabling simultaneous transmission and reception and expanding the antenna's functionality.

[0017] A second aspect of this application provides a communication module, which includes at least one of a radio frequency front-end and a processor, and any of the antennas provided in the first aspect of this application. This allows the communication module to utilize an antenna with a simple structure and high aperture utilization, making it easier to integrate into the communication module and reducing its manufacturing cost. Compared to communication modules that use multiple antennas to achieve multiple frequency bands, this also reduces the overall size of the communication module.

[0018] A third aspect of this application provides an electronic device that includes the communication module provided in the second aspect of this application. This allows the electronic device to utilize a smaller communication module, which also contributes to the miniaturization of the electronic device.

[0019] A fourth aspect of this application provides an antenna design method, comprising the following steps: First, obtaining a first operating frequency band of a first antenna element, a second operating frequency band of a second antenna element, and a first angle parameter between the first antenna element and a metasurface. Second, determining a second angle parameter between the second antenna element and the metasurface based on the first operating frequency band, the second operating frequency band, and the first angle parameter. Third, determining the phase distribution of the metasurface based on the first operating frequency band and the first angle parameter. The first operating frequency band and the second operating frequency band are different. The beam transmission and reception directions of the first antenna element and the second antenna element are oriented towards the metasurface. The first angle parameter indicates the angle between the beam transmitted and received by the first antenna element and a first direction, and the second angle parameter indicates the angle between the beam transmitted and received by the second antenna element and the first direction, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the metasurface. Thus, an antenna designed using this method includes a first antenna element, a second antenna element, and a metasurface. Such an antenna is a dual-band common-aperture antenna with a simpler structure and higher aperture utilization. Based on this method, multi-band common-aperture antennas with more frequency bands can be further designed.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the phase distribution φ(x) of the metasurface in the x-direction of the antenna designed by this method satisfies: Where k1 is the wavenumber of the first operating frequency band, and the x-direction is perpendicular to the first direction. Thus, a metasurface satisfying this phase distribution can be used with only the first antenna element in the first operating frequency band, and the first included angle is θ. i1 The direction of the electromagnetic wave beam transmitted and received by the antenna element in the antenna is controlled.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the method can be further extended to design a multi-band common-aperture antenna. The method further includes the following steps: a fourth step, obtaining a third operating frequency band; and a fifth step, determining the third angle parameter between the third antenna element and the metasurface based on the first operating frequency band, the third operating frequency band, and the first angle parameter. The third operating frequency band differs from the first and second operating frequency bands. The beam transmission and reception direction of the third antenna element faces the metasurface. The third angle parameter indicates the angle between the beam transmitted and received by the third antenna element and the first direction. Thus, an antenna designed using this method includes a first antenna element, a second antenna element, a third antenna element, and a metasurface. Such an antenna is a tri-band common-aperture antenna, capable of operating on more frequency bands simultaneously.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the method can be further extended to design a common-aperture single-sided antenna with better performance, either possessing only electromagnetic wave beam receiving or only electromagnetic wave beam transmitting capabilities, or a common-aperture transceiver antenna possessing both electromagnetic wave beam receiving and transmitting capabilities. The method further includes the following steps: Step 6, obtaining the fourth angle parameter between the fourth antenna element and the metasurface, wherein the first angle parameter differs from the fourth angle parameter. Step 7, determining the phase distribution of the metasurface based on the first operating frequency band, the first angle parameter, and the fourth angle parameter. The beam transmission / reception direction of the fourth antenna element faces the metasurface, and the fourth angle parameter indicates the angle between the beam transmitted / received by the fourth antenna element and the first direction. Thus, the antenna designed by this method includes a first antenna element, a second antenna element, a third antenna element, a fourth antenna element, and a metasurface, with both the fourth and first antenna elements operating in the first operating frequency band. When both the first and fourth antenna elements are receiving antennas or both are transmitting antennas, the efficiency of the antenna in receiving or transmitting beams in the first operating frequency band can be enhanced. When one of the first antenna element and the fourth antenna element is a receiving antenna and the other is a transmitting antenna, such an antenna is a tri-band common aperture transceiver antenna, which can simultaneously perform the functions of receiving and transmitting signals in the first operating frequency band.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the method can be further extended by adding antenna elements in other operating frequency bands. The method also includes the following step: Step 8, determining the fifth angle parameter between the fifth antenna element and the metasurface based on the first operating frequency band, the second operating frequency band, and the fourth angle parameter. The beam transmission / reception direction of the fifth antenna element faces the metasurface. The fifth angle parameter indicates the angle between the beam transmitted / received by the fifth antenna element and the first direction. The antenna designed by this method includes a first antenna element, a second antenna element, a third antenna element, a fourth antenna element, a fifth antenna element, and a metasurface. The fourth antenna element and the first antenna element both operate in the first operating frequency band, and the second antenna element and the fourth antenna element both operate in the second operating frequency band. When both the second antenna element and the fifth antenna element are receiving antennas or both are transmitting antennas, the efficiency of the antenna in receiving or transmitting beams in the second operating frequency band can be enhanced. When one of the second antenna element and the fifth antenna element is a receiving antenna and the other is a transmitting antenna, such an antenna is a tri-band common-aperture transceiver antenna, capable of simultaneously receiving and transmitting signals in both the first and second operating frequency bands.

[0024] A fifth aspect of this application provides an antenna design apparatus, which includes modules for performing any of the methods provided in the fourth aspect of this application. The antenna design apparatus includes modules, units, or means that implement the method, which can be implemented in hardware, software, or by hardware executing corresponding software implementations. The hardware or software includes one or more modules or units corresponding to the functions. This enables automated design of antenna parameters and improves design efficiency.

[0025] In some possible designs, the antenna design apparatus may include a processing module and a transceiver module. The processing module can be used to implement the processing functions in the fourth aspect described above and any possible implementation thereof. The transceiver module may include a receiving module and a transmitting module, respectively used to implement the receiving function and the transmitting function in the fourth aspect described above and any possible implementation thereof.

[0026] In some possible designs, the transceiver module can consist of transceiver circuitry, a transceiver unit, a transceiver interface, or a communication interface.

[0027] A sixth aspect of this application provides an antenna design apparatus, including a processor and a memory. The memory stores computer instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the antenna design apparatus to perform the method of the fourth aspect and any possible implementation thereof.

[0028] A seventh aspect of this application provides an antenna design apparatus, including a processor and a communication interface. The communication interface is used to communicate with a module outside the antenna design apparatus; the processor is used to execute computer programs or instructions to cause the antenna design apparatus to perform any of the methods described in this application.

[0029] An eighth aspect of this application provides an antenna design apparatus, including at least one processor. The processor executes a computer program or instructions stored in a memory to cause the antenna design apparatus to perform the method of the fourth aspect. The memory may be coupled to the processor, or it may be independent of the processor.

[0030] A ninth aspect of this application provides an antenna design apparatus (e.g., the antenna design apparatus may be a chip or a chip system), the antenna design apparatus including a processor for implementing the functions involved in the fourth aspect.

[0031] In some possible designs, the antenna design device includes a memory for storing necessary program instructions and data.

[0032] In some possible designs, when the device is a chip system, it can be composed of chips or contain chips and other discrete components.

[0033] It is understood that the antenna design apparatus provided in aspects five through nine may be an antenna design apparatus that performs the design method of aspect four, or a module or unit (e.g., a chip, a chip system, or a circuit) of an antenna design apparatus that performs the methods / operations / steps / actions described in aspect four, or a module or unit that can be used in conjunction with the antenna design method, or a logic node, logic module, or software that can realize all or part of the functions of the antenna design apparatus.

[0034] It is understandable that when the antenna design device provided in any of the fifth to ninth aspects is a chip, the transmitting action / function of the antenna design device can be understood as output information, and the receiving action / function of the antenna design device can be understood as input information.

[0035] A tenth aspect of this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when run on an antenna design apparatus, enable the antenna design apparatus to perform the method of the fourth aspect.

[0036] According to the eleventh aspect of the embodiments of this application, a computer program product containing instructions is provided that, when run on an antenna design apparatus, enables the antenna design apparatus to perform the method of the fourth aspect.

[0037] A twelfth aspect of this application provides a communication system including an antenna design apparatus and a receiving apparatus. The antenna design apparatus is used to perform the methods described in the fourth aspect and any of its possible designs. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication module provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an antenna structure provided in an embodiment of this application. The antenna is a multi-frequency common aperture antenna.

[0041] Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the antenna in Figure 2. The antenna includes two antenna elements implemented by patch.

[0042] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the principle of metasurface control of electromagnetic wave propagation direction in the antenna in Figure 2. The electromagnetic wave is incident from the first surface and exits from the second surface.

[0043] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the principle of metasurface control of electromagnetic wave propagation direction in the antenna in Figure 2. The electromagnetic wave is incident from the second surface and exits from the first surface.

[0044] Figure 7 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the antenna in Figure 2. The antenna is a dual-band common-aperture antenna.

[0045] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a method for controlling the propagation direction of electromagnetic waves using the metasurface of the antenna in Figure 6. The electromagnetic waves are perpendicular to the metasurface on the second surface.

[0046] Figure 9 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the antenna in Figure 2. The antenna is a tri-band common aperture antenna.

[0047] Figure 10 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the antenna in Figure 2. The antenna is a tri-band common aperture antenna with two antenna elements in the first operating frequency band.

[0048] Figure 11 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the antenna in Figure 2. The antenna is a tri-band common aperture transceiver antenna.

[0049] Figure 12 is a flowchart of an antenna design method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 13 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the antenna in Figure 2. The antenna is a tri-band common aperture antenna.

[0051] Figure 14 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the antenna in Figure 2. The antenna is a tri-band common aperture transceiver antenna, which can simultaneously receive and transmit in the first operating frequency band.

[0052] Figure 15 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the antenna in Figure 2. The antenna is a tri-band common aperture transceiver antenna, which can simultaneously receive and transmit in the second operating frequency band.

[0053] Figure 16 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the antenna in Figure 2. The antenna is a tri-band common aperture transceiver antenna, which can simultaneously receive and transmit in the first and second operating frequency bands.

[0054] Figure 17 is another flowchart of an antenna design method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 18 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the antenna in Figure 2. The antenna is a dual-band common-aperture transceiver antenna, which can realize reception and transmission in both operating frequency bands.

[0056] Figure 19 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the antenna in Figure 2. The antenna is a tri-band common aperture transceiver antenna, which can realize reception and transmission in three operating frequency bands.

[0057] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of the metasurface phase distribution design process of an antenna according to an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 21 is a schematic diagram of a metasurface structure design method for an antenna according to an embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 22 is a schematic diagram of an antenna design device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0060] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0061] Hereinafter, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined with "first," "second," etc., may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0062] Furthermore, in the embodiments of this application, directional terms such as "upper" and "lower" are defined relative to the orientation in which the components are schematically placed in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these directional terms are relative concepts, used for relative description and clarification, and can change accordingly depending on the orientation in which the components are placed in the accompanying drawings.

[0063] In the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of this application, components are represented by guide lines with arrows, parts are represented by guide lines only, and dummy structures such as cavities and openings are represented by guide lines with wavy lines at the ends.

[0064] Electronic devices, also known as terminal equipment, user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), etc., are devices used to provide voice or data connectivity to users, and can also be Internet of Things (IoT) devices. For example, terminal equipment includes handheld devices with wireless connectivity, vehicle-mounted devices, etc. Currently, electronic devices can include: mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices (such as smartwatches, smart bracelets, pedometers, smart glasses, etc.), in-vehicle equipment (such as cars, bicycles, electric vehicles, airplanes, ships, trains, high-speed trains, etc.), satellite terminals, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, point-of-sale (POS) machines, customer-premises equipment (CPE), light user equipment (UE), reduced capability user equipment (REDCAP UE), wireless terminals in industrial control, smart home devices (such as refrigerators, televisions, air conditioners, electricity meters, etc.), intelligent robots, robotic arms, workshop equipment, wireless terminals in autonomous driving, wireless terminals in telemedicine, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, or wireless terminals in smart homes, and flying equipment (such as intelligent robots, hot air balloons, drones, airplanes), etc. Electronic devices can also be vehicle devices, such as vehicle units, vehicle modules, vehicle chips, on-board units (OBUs) or telematics boxes (T-BOXs). Terminal devices can also be other devices with terminal functions. For example, electronic devices can also be devices that serve as terminals in D2D communication.

[0065] In one possible scenario, electronic devices can be base stations, evolved NodeBs (eNodeBs), transmitting and receiving points (TRPs), transmitting points (TPs), next-generation NodeBs (gNBs), base stations in future mobile communication systems, satellites, or access points (APs) in WiFi systems, integrated access and backhaul (IAB) nodes, and network equipment in mobile switching center non-terrestrial network (NTN) communication systems, i.e., they can be deployed on high-altitude platforms or satellites, etc.

[0066] For example, Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of the internal component structure of electronic device 01. Electronic device 01 may include the communication module 02 provided in the embodiments of this application (e.g., mobile communication module 02A and wireless communication module 02B in Figure 1). In some possible implementations, the electronic device may also include a processing module 011, wherein the processing module 011 may be one or more processors. In some possible implementations, the electronic device may also include functional circuits such as an external memory interface, internal memory, a sensor module, a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a battery, a charging management module, a power management module, a first antenna 03A, a second antenna 03B, an audio module, a speaker, a receiver, a microphone, a headphone jack, a camera, and a display screen.

[0067] It is understood that the structure illustrated in this embodiment does not constitute a specific limitation on the electronic device 01. In other embodiments of this application, the electronic device 01 may include more or fewer components than illustrated, or combine some components, or split some components, or have different component arrangements. The illustrated components may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0068] In one possible scenario, the communication module can be a radio unit (RU) in an open-radio access network (O-RAN) system. The RU can be included in radio frequency equipment or radio frequency units, such as in a remote radio unit (RRU), an active antenna unit (AAU), or a remote radio head (RRH).

[0069] The mobile communication module 02A can provide wireless communication solutions, including 2G / 3G / 4G / 5G, for use on the electronic device 01, or future wireless communication solutions. The mobile communication module 02A can receive electromagnetic waves via the first antenna 03A, and perform filtering, amplification, and other processing on the received electromagnetic waves before transmitting them to the modem processing module for demodulation. The mobile communication module 02A can also amplify the signal modulated by the modem processing module and convert it into electromagnetic waves for radiation via the first antenna 03A. In some embodiments, at least some functional modules of the mobile communication module 02A can be housed in the processing module 011. In some embodiments, at least some functional modules of the mobile communication module 02A and at least some modules of the processing module 011 can be housed in the same device.

[0070] The wireless communication module 02B can provide solutions for wireless communication applications on electronic device 01, including wireless local area networks (WLAN) (such as wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) networks), Bluetooth (BT), global navigation satellite system (GNSS), frequency modulation (FM), near field communication (NFC), and infrared (IR) technologies. The wireless communication module 02B can be one or more devices integrating one or more communication processing modules. The wireless communication module 02B receives electromagnetic waves via the second antenna 03B, performs frequency modulation and filtering of the electromagnetic wave signal, and sends the processed signal to the processing module 011. The wireless communication module 02B can also receive signals to be transmitted from the processing module 011, perform frequency modulation and amplification, and then convert them into electromagnetic waves for radiation via the second antenna 03B.

[0071] Therefore, electronic device 011 can communicate with networks and other devices via wireless communication technologies. These wireless communication technologies may include Long Term Evolution (LTE), BitTorrent, GNSS, WLAN, NFC, FM, and / or IR technologies. The GNSS may include Global Positioning System (GPS), Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS), BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS), Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS), and / or Satellite Based Augmentation Systems (SBAS).

[0072] To achieve the functions of the aforementioned communication module, one possible implementation, referring to Figure 2, shows that the communication module 02 includes at least one of an antenna 03, a processor 021, and a radio frequency (RF) front-end 022. The processor 021 is electrically connected to the RF front-end 022, and the RF front-end 022 is electrically connected to the antenna 03. The processor 021 integrates any of the aforementioned communication technologies for signal encoding, decoding, encryption, decryption, modulation, and demodulation, ensuring that data is correctly converted from the application layer to the physical layer in digital form. The RF front-end 022 is used for signal amplification, filtering, and frequency conversion, ensuring that the signal is sufficiently strong during transmission and effectively amplified and interference-free during reception. The antenna 03 is used for transmitting and receiving electromagnetic waves.

[0073] During communication, during transmission, processor 021 generates or processes digital signals and sends them to RF front-end 022. RF front-end 022 performs digital-to-analog conversion, up-conversion, and power amplification on the signals, and then transmits them through antenna 03 after preparation. During reception, antenna 03 receives the signals and sends them to RF front-end 022. RF front-end 022 performs down-conversion, filtering, amplification, and analog-to-digital conversion on the signals, converting them into intermediate frequency or baseband signals suitable for processor 021 to process, and then sends them to processor 021 for further processing. This division of labor ensures the efficiency and accuracy of communication, and also allows communication module 02 to support multi-band, multi-mode wireless communication.

[0074] It is understandable that the functions of processor 021 and RF front-end 022 can be implemented by other modules or devices outside the communication module.

[0075] With the explosive growth of communication demands and scenarios, electronic devices are integrating an increasing number of frequency bands. To balance the miniaturization needs of electronic devices with the demands of multi-band communication, communication modules in these devices can employ common-aperture antennas. This involves rationally arranging multi-band antenna elements, feeding structures, and isolation networks to integrate antenna systems with multiple wavelengths or functions within the same aperture. However, directly embedding antenna elements operating independently at different frequency bands within the antenna in a multi-band common-aperture antenna can cause obstruction and electromagnetic interference between these elements. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the differences between antenna elements and arrange them in a staggered manner to avoid obstruction. Decoupling techniques and isolation structures must also be employed to prevent electromagnetic interference between antenna elements. The staggered arrangement of antenna elements prevents traditional common-aperture antennas from fully utilizing the entire antenna aperture, and the introduction of isolation structures increases the structural complexity of the antenna.

[0076] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides an antenna. As shown in Figure 3, the antenna 03A includes a metasurface 031a and at least two antenna elements 032a. All antenna elements 032a operate within the same aperture plane. At least two antenna elements 032a operate in different frequency bands; for example, the first antenna element 0321a operates in a first operating frequency band f1, and the second antenna element 0322a operates in a second operating frequency band f2. The first operating frequency band f1 and the second operating frequency band f2 are different.

[0077] It is understood that the embodiments of this application do not limit the function of the antenna elements. In the antennas provided in the embodiments of this application, the antenna elements can function as both transmitting and receiving elements. All antenna elements in the antenna can be receiving elements, all can be transmitting elements, or some can be receiving elements and some can be transmitting elements. For example, when the antenna element functions as a transmitting element, as shown in antenna 03A in Figure 3, antenna element 032a transmits an electromagnetic wave beam outward, and the beam transmission and reception direction of antenna element 032b faces the metasurface 031b. For example, when the antenna element functions as a receiving element, as shown in antenna 03B in Figure 3, antenna element 032b receives an electromagnetic wave beam, and the beam transmission and reception direction of antenna element 032b faces the metasurface 031b.

[0078] It is understandable that the beamforming direction of an antenna element refers to the specific spatial direction in which energy is concentrated when the antenna element transmits or receives electromagnetic waves. When the antenna element is a transmitting element or is in transmit mode, beamforming technology adjusts the amplitude and phase of each element in the antenna array to concentrate electromagnetic wave energy at specific horizontal and vertical angles, forming a narrow beam. The propagation direction of this beam is the transmission direction of the electromagnetic wave. When the antenna element is a receiving element or is in receive mode, it also has an optimal receiving direction, allowing it to most effectively capture electromagnetic waves from that direction. In electromagnetic theory, the transmission and reception characteristics of an antenna element follow the reciprocity theorem, meaning that antenna elements have similar directional characteristics when transmitting and receiving. This implies that if an antenna element has good reception performance in a certain direction, theoretically, under the same conditions, its transmission performance in that direction should also be good. This direction can be called the beamforming direction of the antenna element. Specifically, the beam transmission and reception direction of the antenna element is towards the metasurface, that is, the angle between the electromagnetic wave beam received or transmitted by the antenna element and the metasurface is in the range of (-90°, 90°).

[0079] This application does not limit the operating frequency band f of the antenna element. The operating frequency band f is mainly limited by the electromagnetic wave frequency range tunable by the metasurface and the communication specifications required in practical applications. It is understood that the wave number k and wavelength λ0 are determined by the operating frequency band f; therefore, this application also does not limit the wave number k and wavelength λ0. For example, the metasurface can tunable electromagnetic waves from 1 GHz to 20 GHz. The first antenna element operates in the C-band (4 GHz-8 GHz) with f1 = 5 GHz, and the second antenna element operates in the Ku-band (12 GHz-18 GHz) with f2 = 17 GHz. Then λ... 01 =59.95mm, λ 02 =17.65mm, k1=2π / λ 01 k2=2π / λ 02 .

[0080] Thus, the antenna provided in this embodiment is a multi-band common-aperture antenna. By integrating antenna elements operating in multiple frequency bands within the same aperture plane, multi-band collaborative operation is achieved. The antenna provided in this embodiment uses a metasurface to control the propagation direction of the electromagnetic wave beam received or transmitted by antenna element 032. The electromagnetic waves received or transmitted by the antenna element are not obstructed or interfered with after being controlled by the metasurface, improving the aperture utilization rate of the antenna. At this point, independently operating antenna elements can be directly integrated into a single antenna without further consideration of electromagnetic compatibility and optimization, simplifying the antenna structure.

[0081] For ease of description, xyz coordinate axes are established in the attached diagram, with the z-direction perpendicular to the metasurface and the plane parallel to the metasurface forming the xy coordinate axis. The z-direction is called the first direction z, the x-direction the second direction x, and the y-direction the third direction z. To distinguish them from the direction and coordinate axes, an arrow with a wavy line in the middle is used to represent the electromagnetic wave beam.

[0082] This application does not limit the form of the antenna element. Generally, an antenna element refers to a radiating structure used to radiate or receive electromagnetic wave beams. For example, an antenna element can be in the form of a patch, slot, horn, dipole, microstrip line, etc. In some examples, the antenna element may also include a feed element coupled to the radiating structure. For example, as shown in Figure 4, antenna element 032 of antenna 03 is in the form of a patch. The radiation direction of the electromagnetic wave beams received or transmitted by the first antenna element 0321 and the second antenna element 0322, which operate in different operating frequency bands, is adjusted by the metasurface 031. To better illustrate the control of the transmit and receive beams of antenna element 032 by the metasurface 031, the following examples all use the cross-section of the xz plane.

[0083] This application does not limit the function of the antenna elements. An antenna element can be a transmitting antenna, a receiving antenna, or an antenna that performs both receiving and transmitting functions depending on the operating mode. It should be noted that when the number of frequency bands in the antenna is equal to the number of antenna elements, the antenna provided in this application is a single-sided common-aperture antenna that only has electromagnetic wave beam receiving or electromagnetic wave beam transmitting functions. When the number of frequency bands in the antenna is greater than the number of antenna elements, the antenna provided in this application is a common-aperture transceiver antenna that can simultaneously achieve electromagnetic wave beam transmission and reception in one or more frequency bands.

[0084] This application does not limit the specific assembly method of the metasurface in the antenna. For example, the metasurface can be an independent structure located in the antenna element beam transmission and reception direction, or it can be attached to an existing structure in the antenna element beam transmission and reception direction. For example, the metasurface can be attached to the antenna radome, and the metasurface is disposed between the antenna element and the radome, or the radome is disposed between the antenna element and the metasurface.

[0085] This application does not limit the specific structure of the metasurface. The metasurface can be any structural form that can control the propagation direction of the electromagnetic wave beam received or transmitted by the antenna element. Optionally, the metasurface is a broadband response metasurface. A broadband response metasurface can maintain effective electromagnetic wave control capability over a wide frequency range. A broadband response metasurface also has dynamic tuning capability, allowing the response characteristics to be adjusted within the bandwidth through optical, electrical, or thermal control. For example, the metasurface is a broadband response metasurface. The metasurface includes multiple metasurface units, each capable of adjusting its electromagnetic response according to binary encoding (0 or 1), thereby achieving fine control of the electromagnetic waves through digital encoding. The dimensions of the metasurface units satisfy that the perimeter P is less than or equal to the minimum wavelength λ among all operating frequencies. min Half of, that is The overall phase shift of the metasurface should satisfy a coverage range of 0 to 2π.

[0086] In one possible implementation, as shown in FIG5, the metasurface 031 includes a first surface 0311 and a second surface 0312. The first surface 0311 faces the beam transmission / reception direction of the antenna element 031. The phase distribution of the metasurface 031 satisfies the following condition: beams of different frequencies are deflected at different incident angles θ. i When propagating from the first surface 0311 to the second surface 0312, the outgoing deflection angle θ t They become the same. Among them, the incident deflection angle θ i and the exit deflection angle θ t Let be the angle between the beam and the first direction z, which is perpendicular to the metasurface 031. This allows for the manipulation of the electromagnetic waves emitted by the antenna element via the metasurface.

[0087] It is understandable that θ i It is the angle θ between the electromagnetic wave beam and the first surface. t It is the angle between the electromagnetic wave beam and the second surface, θ i and θ t The values ​​of θ all fall within the range of (-90°, 90°). For ease of explanation, θ will be used as the reference below. in θ represents the angle between the electromagnetic wave beam transmitted and received by the nth antenna element and the first surface. t θ represents the angle between the electromagnetic wave beam transmitted and received by the nth antenna element and the second surface. i and θ t The values ​​of all values ​​are within the range of (-90°, 90°).

[0088] For example, referring to Figures 7 and 5, antenna 03A includes a first antenna element 0321a, a second antenna element 0322a, and a metasurface 031a. Both the first antenna element 0321a and the second antenna element 0322a are transmitting elements. When the phase distribution of the metasurface 031a satisfies the above conditions, the incident deflection angle of the first beam emitted by the first antenna element 0321a is θ. i1 The incident deflection angle of the second beam emitted by the second antenna unit 0322a is θ. i2 θ i1 and θ i2 They are different. The first beam and the second beam propagate from the first surface 0311a to the second surface 0312a. The first beam has an outgoing deflection angle θ. t1 The second beam exits from the second surface 0312a, with an exit deflection angle θ. t2 Ejected from the second surface 0312a, θ t1 and θ t2 The same applies. In this way, it is possible to control the electromagnetic waves emitted by the antenna element through the metasurface.

[0089] The process of metasurface modulation of electromagnetic waves described above can be viewed as the metasurface modulating electromagnetic waves of different frequencies propagating in multiple directions into electromagnetic waves propagating coaxially. Furthermore, since electromagnetic waves are also a type of light wave, according to the principle of light reversibility, the modulation and demodulation processes of the metasurface are reciprocal. In other words, the metasurface can also demodulate electromagnetic waves of different frequencies propagating coaxially into electromagnetic waves propagating in multiple directions.

[0090] Based on the characteristic that the antenna element provided in this application can transmit and receive electromagnetic wave beams in a single direction, this application does not limit the type of antenna element. The antenna element can be either a directional antenna or a phased array antenna. For example, the antenna element is a phased array antenna, which electronically controls the direction of the beam to achieve the reception of electromagnetic waves at a specific angle.

[0091] In one possible implementation, as shown in FIG6, metasurface 031 includes a first surface 0311 and a second surface 0312. The first surface 0311 faces the beam transmission / reception direction of antenna element 032. The phase distribution of metasurface 031 satisfies the condition that beams of different frequencies are deflected by the same incident angle θ. t When propagating from the second surface 0312 to the first surface 0311, the outgoing deflection angle θ i The difference becomes apparent. Specifically, the incident deflection angle θ... t and the exit deflection angle θ i Let θ be the angle between the beam and the first direction z, which is perpendicular to the metasurface 031. It should be noted that this embodiment is derived from the previous embodiment based on the principle of ray reversibility; therefore, the incident deflection angle θ in this embodiment... tThe emission deflection angle θ in the previous embodiment t The emission deflection angle θ in this embodiment i The incident deflection angle θ in the previous embodiment i .

[0092] For example, referring to Figures 7 and 6, antenna 03B includes a first antenna element 0321b, a second antenna element 0322b, and a metasurface 031b. Both the first antenna element 0321b and the second antenna element 0322b are receiving elements. When the phase distribution of the metasurface 031b satisfies the above conditions, the first beam is deflected at an incident angle θ. t1 The second beam is incident from the second surface 0312b, and deflected at an incident angle θ. t2 Incident from the second surface 0312b, θ t1 and θ t2 The same. That is, the first beam and the second beam are incident parallel to each other from the second surface. The first beam and the second beam propagate from the second surface 0312b to the first surface 0321b. The first beam has an exit deflection angle θ. i1 Emerging from the first surface 0311b, the second beam is deflected at an exit angle θ. i2 Ejected from the first surface 0312b, θ i1 and θ i2 They are different. The first antenna element 0321b receives the first beam, and the second antenna element 0322b receives the second beam. In this way, the electromagnetic waves received by the antenna can be controlled by the metasurface.

[0093] It is understandable that when an antenna is used as a receiving antenna, although theoretically the electromagnetic waves received by the antenna can come from various directions, in reality, the electromagnetic waves that the antenna can efficiently receive come from specific directions. Therefore, in the embodiments of this application, when the antenna is used as a receiving antenna, the incident beam direction discussed is the same.

[0094] According to the generalized Snell's theorem, the modulation of electromagnetic waves received or transmitted by an antenna by a metasurface can be expressed as follows: Where, θ i Let θ be the angle between the electromagnetic wave and the first surface of the metasurface. t Let λ be the angle between the electromagnetic wave and the second surface of the metasurface, λ0 be the wavelength of the electromagnetic wave in the frequency band, which is also the wavelength of the antenna operating in the frequency band of transmitting and receiving electromagnetic waves, and φ(x) be the phase distribution of the metasurface in the second direction x, which is perpendicular to the first direction z. Based on this, the phase distribution of the metasurface that can satisfy the above-mentioned control effect can be derived.

[0095] In one possible implementation, the phase distribution φ(x) of the metasurface in the second direction x satisfies: Where k1 is the wavenumber of the first operating frequency band, k2 is the wavenumber of the second operating frequency band, and the second direction x is perpendicular to the first direction z. In this way, a metasurface satisfying this phase distribution can modulate the electromagnetic waves received and transmitted by a specific antenna. This specific antenna includes a first antenna element and a second antenna element, with the first antenna element operating in the first operating frequency band and the second antenna element operating in the second operating frequency band.

[0096] Understandably, this relationship can be generalized to antennas containing more antenna elements. That is, the antenna consists of a metasurface and n antenna elements, with the nth antenna element operating in the nth operating frequency band. In this case, the phase distribution φ(x) of the metasurface in the second direction x satisfies: Where, k n Let x be the wave number of the nth operating frequency band, and let x be the second direction perpendicular to z.

[0097] It should be understood that the relational expressions in the embodiments of this application represent only one possible implementation method for realizing the relationship between parameters in the embodiments of this application. If the parameter relationship agreed upon in the embodiments of this application is realized through other relational expressions and the same technical effect as the embodiments of this application is achieved, it is still within the protection scope of this application.

[0098] In one possible implementation, the antenna includes two antenna elements, namely a first antenna element and a second antenna element. The first antenna element operates in a first operating frequency band f1, and the second antenna element operates in a second operating frequency band f2.

[0099] In one possible implementation, the antenna consists of a first antenna element and a second antenna element. For example, as shown in Figure 7, antenna 03A includes a first antenna element 0321a and a second antenna element 0322a. The first antenna element 0321a and the second antenna element 0322a are transmitting units. For example, as shown in Figure 7, antenna 03B includes a first antenna element 0321b and a second antenna element 0322b. The first antenna element 0321b and the second antenna element 0322b are receiving units.

[0100] In this way, the antenna is a dual-band, common-aperture, single-sided antenna. The antenna can operate simultaneously in the first operating frequency band f1 and the second operating frequency band f2. The metasurface can control the propagation direction of the electromagnetic wave beams received or transmitted by the first and second antenna elements, avoiding mutual obstruction between the first and second antenna elements and improving the antenna aperture utilization rate.

[0101] In another possible implementation, the antenna consists of a first type of antenna element and a second type of antenna element. That is, multiple antenna elements can operate in both the first and second operating frequency bands. For example, as shown in Figure 18, antenna 03 includes a first antenna element 0321, a second antenna element 0322, a fourth antenna element 0324, and a fifth antenna element 0325. The first type of antenna elements, namely the first antenna element 0321 and the fourth antenna element 0324, operate in the first operating frequency band f1. The second type of antenna elements, namely the second antenna element 0322 and the fifth antenna element 0325, operate in the second operating frequency band f2. Among these, the first antenna element 0321 and the second antenna element 0322 are transmitting units, and the fourth antenna element 0324 and the fifth antenna element 0325 are receiving units.

[0102] In this way, the antenna is a dual-band, common-aperture transceiver antenna, possessing both receiving and transmitting functions. This application embodiment limits the number of antenna elements to two or more. It should be understood that the antenna includes at least two antenna elements operating in different frequency bands (e.g., a first antenna element and a second antenna element), and may also include more antenna elements (e.g., an nth antenna element). If the antenna includes more antenna elements, this application embodiment does not limit the operating frequency band and function of the nth antenna element. The nth antenna element can operate in an existing operating frequency band or in other operating frequency bands. The nth antenna element can be a transmitting element or a receiving element. Examples of antennas including more antenna elements are given below; it should be understood that these examples do not constitute a limitation on the number and function of antenna elements.

[0103] It is understandable that a single-sided antenna refers to an antenna that only has the function of receiving electromagnetic wave beams or only has the function of transmitting electromagnetic wave beams. Correspondingly, an antenna that has both the function of receiving and transmitting electromagnetic wave beams is a transceiver antenna.

[0104] It is understandable that a metasurface with the same phase distribution can be used for both receiving and transmitting antennas. As shown in Figure 7, antenna 03A is the transmitting antenna, and antenna 03B is the receiving antenna. The two metasurfaces used have the same phase. Therefore, in Figure 7, inside the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna, the corresponding antenna elements with the same frequency but opposite functions have the same angle θ between the transmitting and receiving beams on the first surface and in the first direction z. i The design is identical. Therefore, when designing an antenna with the same number and range of operating frequency bands as existing antennas, but with opposite antenna element functions, the existing antenna's metasurface design can be reused. This simplifies the design process.

[0105] In some examples, the first beam transmitted and received by the first antenna element has a first angle θ between the first surface and the first direction z. i1The second beam transmitted and received by the second antenna element forms a second angle θ with the first surface and the first direction z. i2 Wherein, the first direction z is perpendicular to the metasurface, and the first included angle θ i1 The second included angle θ i2 They are different. For example, as shown in Figure 7, in antenna 03A, when both the first antenna element 0321a and the second antenna element 0322a are transmitting antennas, the first beam and the second beam will be at a first included angle θ. i1 The second included angle θ i2 The incident metasurface 031a has a first surface 0311a. For example, as shown in Figure 7, in antenna 03B, when both the first antenna element 0321b and the second antenna element 0322b are receiving elements, the first beam and the second beam will exit from the first surface 0311b of the metasurface 031b at a first angle and a second angle, respectively, and be received by the first antenna element 0321b and the second antenna element 0322b. In this way, the first antenna element and the second antenna element will not block each other.

[0106] In some examples, the first beam transmitted and received by the first antenna element has a third angle θ between the second surface and the first direction z. t1 The second beam transmitted and received by the second antenna element forms a fourth angle θ with the second surface and the first direction z. t2 Among them, the third included angle θ t1 The angle θ between the fourth and fourth angles t2 The same. For example, as shown in Figure 7, in antenna 03A, both the first antenna element 0321a and the second antenna element 0322a are transmitting antennas, and the first beam and the second beam will be at a third included angle θ. t1 and the fourth included angle θ t2 It exits from the second surface 0312a of the metasurface 031a. For example, as shown in Figure 7, in antenna 03B, both the first antenna element 0321b and the second antenna element 0322b are receiving elements, and the first and second beams will converge at a third angle θ. t1 and the fourth included angle θ t2 The incident light is received by the first antenna element 0321b and the second antenna element 0322b after passing through the second surface of the metasurface 031b. In other words, the first antenna element 0321b and the second antenna element 0322b will not block each other.

[0107] In one possible implementation, the first included angle θ i1 The second included angle θ i2 satisfy: and θ t1 =θ t2 Where k1 is the wavenumber of the first operating frequency band, and λ 02This is the wavelength of the second operating frequency band. In this way, the second antenna element can share the same phase distribution metasurface as the first antenna element to control the direction of the electromagnetic wave beam.

[0108] Based on this, the phase distribution φ(x) of the metasurface of the antenna in the second direction x satisfies: Where k1 is the wavenumber of the first operating frequency band, and the second direction x is perpendicular to the first direction z. Thus, the metasurface satisfying this phase distribution can modulate the electromagnetic waves received and transmitted by a specific antenna. This specific antenna operating in the first operating frequency band consists only of the first antenna element, and the first beam transmitted and received by the first antenna element forms a first angle θ between the first surface and the first direction z. i1 .

[0109] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the operating frequency band containing the most antenna elements is designated as the first operating frequency band. When two operating frequency bands contain the same number of antenna elements, either one can be used as the first operating frequency band. The metasurface phase distribution formula provided in this embodiment is applicable to antennas with only one antenna element in the first operating frequency band f1. In the following specific antenna examples, this embodiment will provide more variations of the formula satisfied by the phase distribution φ(x).

[0110] In one possible implementation, the first beam transmitted and received by the first antenna element is parallel to the first direction z on the second surface, and the second beam transmitted and received by the second antenna element is parallel to the first direction z on the second surface. That is, θ t1 =θ t2 =0, sinθ t1 =sinθ t2 =0. For example, as shown in Figure 8, in antenna 03A, when both the first antenna element 0321a and the second antenna element 0322a are transmitting antennas, the first beam and the second beam will exit perpendicularly from the second surface 0312a of the metasurface 031a. In antenna 03A, as shown in Figure 8, in antenna 03B, when both the first antenna element 0321b and the second antenna element 0322b are receiving elements, the first beam and the second beam will be perpendicularly incident on the second surface of the metasurface, and after passing through the metasurface 031b, will be received by the first antenna element 0321b and the second antenna element 0322b, respectively. In this way, the first beam and the second beam are perpendicular to the metasurface on its second surface, which helps to maximize the antenna's aperture utilization, making the antenna more efficient in receiving or transmitting electromagnetic waves.

[0111] Based on this, the first included angle θ i1 The second included angle θ i2 satisfy: The phase distribution φ(x) of the metasurface in the second direction x satisfies: Where k1 is the wavenumber of the first operating frequency band, λ 02 This is the wavelength of the second operating frequency band. This also simplifies the calculation of the second included angle.

[0112] In one possible implementation, the antenna further includes a third antenna element. The third antenna element operates in a third operating frequency band f3. The operating frequency bands of the third antenna element are different from those of the first and second antenna elements. The third beam transmitted and received by the third antenna element forms a fifth angle θ with the first surface and the first direction z. i3 The third beam has a sixth angle θ with the first direction z on the second surface. t3 Among them, the fifth included angle θ i3 Angle θ with the first i1 The second included angle θ i2 Different, the sixth included angle θ t3 The angle θ with the third t1 and the fourth included angle θ t2 Same. In this case, the antenna is a tri-band common-aperture antenna. For example, as shown in Figure 9, antenna 03A is a tri-band common-aperture transmitting antenna. For example, as shown in Figure 9, antenna 03B is a tri-band common-aperture receiving antenna.

[0113] In this way, the antenna can operate simultaneously in the first operating frequency band f1, the second operating frequency band f2, and the third operating frequency band f3. The metasurface can control the propagation direction of the electromagnetic wave beams received or transmitted by the first antenna element, the second antenna element, and the third antenna element, avoiding mutual obstruction between the first antenna element, the second antenna element, and the third antenna element, and improving the aperture utilization of the antenna.

[0114] Based on this, if the first included angle θ i1 The second included angle θ i2 satisfy: Then the first included angle θ i1 and the fifth included angle θ i3 satisfy: And the second included angle θ i1 and the fifth included angle θ i3 satisfy: At this point, the phase distribution φ(x) of the metasurface in the second direction x satisfies: Where k1 is the wavenumber of the first operating frequency band, k2 is the wavenumber of the second operating frequency band, and λ 02 λ is the wavelength of the second operating frequency band. 03 This is the wavelength of the third operating frequency band. In this way, the first antenna element, the second antenna element, and the third antenna element can share the same phase distribution metasurface for electromagnetic wave beam direction control.

[0115] In one possible implementation, the antenna further includes a fourth antenna element. The fourth antenna element operates in the first operating frequency band f1. The fourth antenna element operates in the same frequency band as the first antenna element. The fourth beam transmitted and received by the fourth antenna element forms a seventh angle θ between the first surface and the first direction z. i4 The fourth beam has an eighth angle θ with the first direction z on the second surface. t4 Among them, the seventh included angle θ i4 Angle θ with the first i1 The second included angle θ i2 Different, the eighth included angle θ t4 The angle θ with the third t1 and the fourth included angle θ t2 The same applies. This allows the antenna to operate simultaneously in multiple frequency bands. Metasurfaces can control the propagation direction of electromagnetic wave beams received or transmitted by multiple antenna elements, preventing mutual obstruction between antenna elements and improving the antenna's aperture utilization.

[0116] For example, as shown in Figure 10, when the beam transmission and reception directions of the fourth antenna element and the first antenna element are the same, the antenna is a common-aperture single-sided antenna. Increasing the number of antenna elements in the first operating frequency band f1 can enhance the efficiency of the antenna in transmitting and receiving beams in the first operating frequency band f1. Among them, antenna 03A is a common-aperture transmitting antenna, and antenna 03B is a common-aperture receiving antenna.

[0117] For example, as shown in Figure 11, when the beam transmission and reception directions of the fourth antenna element and the first antenna element are different, the antenna is a multi-frequency common-aperture transceiver antenna, integrating the receiving unit and the transmitting unit within the same aperture, thereby enabling simultaneous transmission and reception and expanding the antenna's functionality. Specifically, antenna 03A contains three transmitting antennas and one receiving antenna, while antenna 03B contains three receiving antennas and one transmitting antenna.

[0118] Based on this, to avoid antenna obstruction, the first included angle θ i1 and the seventh angle θ i4 The difference is that the first included angle θ cannot be distinguished using Snell's theorem in this case. i1 and the seventh angle θ i4 This allows the first and fourth antenna elements to share a metasurface with the same phase distribution. Therefore, the phase distribution of the corresponding metasurface for the first antenna element and the corresponding phase distribution of the corresponding metasurface for the fourth antenna element can be superimposed to obtain a metasurface whose phase distribution satisfies both the beam control requirements of the first and fourth antenna elements. The phase distribution φ(x) of this metasurface in the second direction x satisfies: Where k1 is the wavenumber of the first operating frequency band and k2 is the wavenumber of the second operating frequency band. In this way, the first antenna element, the second antenna element, the third antenna element, and the fourth antenna element can share the same phase distribution metasurface for electromagnetic wave beam direction control.

[0119] It is understandable that if the number of antenna elements in the first operating frequency band increases to n, the phase distribution of the metasurface can be superimposed with the corresponding metasurface phase distribution of the nth antenna element to obtain a metasurface that can satisfy the beam control of all antenna elements.

[0120] Based on the above examples, when the number of antenna elements in an antenna increases, regardless of whether the newly added antenna elements operate in a new frequency band or an existing frequency band, the angle θ between the transmitted and received beams of all antenna elements on the first surface and the first direction z remains the same. i All are different; the angle θ between the transmitted and received beams of all antenna elements on the second surface and the first direction z is different. t They are all the same.

[0121] Understandably, although θ i Theoretically, there are infinitely many possible values ​​for θ, but due to limitations in manufacturing technology, only a limited number of distinguishable values ​​are possible. i The number is finite. When the number of antenna elements included in the antenna exceeds the distinguishable θ... i The number of antennas is insufficient to ensure that the beams transmitted and received by all antenna elements are at an angle θ between the first surface and the first direction z. i When all are different, new antenna elements can be added by arranging them in a staggered manner.

[0122] In one possible implementation, as shown in Figure 11, in antenna 03A, the first antenna element 0321a is used to transmit the first beam, and the fourth antenna element 0324a is used to receive the fourth beam. In this way, antenna 03A is a multi-frequency common-aperture transceiver antenna, with the first antenna element 0321a handling the transmitting function and the fourth antenna element 0324a handling the receiving function. Integrating the receiving and transmitting units within the same aperture allows for simultaneous transmission and reception, thus expanding the functionality of antenna 03A.

[0123] The antenna provided in this application embodiment can be applied to a communication module. This allows the communication module to utilize an antenna with a simple structure and high aperture utilization, making it easier to integrate and reducing the manufacturing cost of the communication module. Compared to communication modules that use multiple antennas to achieve multiple frequency bands, this also reduces the size of the communication module. The communication module using the antenna provided in this application embodiment can also be applied to electronic devices. This allows the electronic device to use a smaller communication module, which also contributes to the miniaturization of the electronic device.

[0124] This application also provides an antenna design method for designing the antenna provided in this application embodiment. As shown in FIG12, the method includes the following steps: Step 1 S101, obtaining a first operating frequency band of a first antenna element, a second operating frequency band of a second antenna element, and a first angle parameter between the first antenna element and the metasurface. Step 2 S102, determining a second angle parameter between the second antenna element and the metasurface based on the first operating frequency band, the second operating frequency band, and the first angle parameter. Step 3 S103, determining the phase distribution of the metasurface based on the first operating frequency band and the first angle parameter. The first operating frequency band is different from the second operating frequency band. The beam transmission and reception directions of the first antenna element and the second antenna element are oriented towards the metasurface. The first angle parameter indicates the angle between the beam transmitted and received by the first antenna element and the first direction, and the second angle parameter indicates the angle between the beam transmitted and received by the second antenna element and the first direction, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the metasurface.

[0125] In this way, the antenna designed using this method includes a first antenna element, a second antenna element, and a metasurface. Such an antenna is a dual-band common-aperture antenna, with a simpler structure and higher aperture utilization. For example, antenna 03 designed using this method is shown in Figure 7. Antenna 03A is a dual-band common-aperture transmitting antenna, including a first antenna element 0321a, a second antenna element 0322a, and a metasurface 031a. As an example, antenna 03B designed using this method is also shown in Figure 7. Antenna 03B is a dual-band common-aperture receiving antenna, including a first antenna element 0321b, a second antenna element 0322b, and a metasurface 031b.

[0126] Based on this, the antenna designed using this method includes a metasurface comprising a first surface and a second surface, with the first surface oriented towards the beam transmission / reception direction of the first and second antenna elements. The phase distribution φ(x) of the metasurface in the second direction x satisfies: Where k1 is the wavenumber of the first operating frequency band, k2 is the wavenumber of the second operating frequency band, the second direction x is perpendicular to the first direction z, and the first beam emitted by the first antenna element makes a first angle θ with the first direction z on the first surface. i1 The second beam emitted by the second antenna unit makes a first angle θ with the first direction z on the first surface. i2 In this way, the metasurface that satisfies this phase distribution can operate with only the first antenna element in the first operating frequency band, and the first included angle is θ. i1 The direction of the electromagnetic wave beam transmitted and received by the antenna element in the antenna is controlled.

[0127] It is understandable that if the first included angle θ i1 The second included angle θ i2 satisfy: The phase distribution φ(x) of the metasurface in the second direction x satisfies: Where, λ 02 This refers to the wavelength of the second operating frequency band.

[0128] In one possible implementation, the method can be further extended to design a multi-frequency common-aperture antenna. As shown in Figure 12, the method further includes the following steps: Step 4, S104, obtaining the third operating frequency band. Step 5, S105, determining the third angle parameter between the third antenna element and the metasurface based on the first operating frequency band, the third operating frequency band, and the first angle parameter. The third operating frequency band differs from the first and second operating frequency bands. The beam transmission and reception direction of the third antenna element faces the metasurface. The third angle parameter indicates the angle between the beam transmitted and received by the third antenna element and the first direction.

[0129] In this way, the antenna designed using this method includes a first antenna element, a second antenna element, a third antenna element, and a metasurface. Such an antenna is a tri-band common-aperture antenna, capable of operating on more frequency bands simultaneously. For example, as shown in Figure 9, antenna 03A is a tri-band common-aperture transmitting antenna, including a first antenna element 0321a, a second antenna element 0322a, a third antenna element 0323a, and a metasurface 031a. As another example, as shown in Figure 9, antenna 03B is a tri-band common-aperture receiving antenna, including a first antenna element 0321b, a second antenna element 0322b, a third antenna element 0323b, and a metasurface 031b.

[0130] In one possible implementation, the method can be further extended to design a common-aperture single-sided antenna with better performance, or a common-aperture transceiver antenna that simultaneously possesses electromagnetic wave beam receiving and electromagnetic wave beam transmitting capabilities. As shown in Figure 12, the method further includes the following steps: Step 6, S106, obtaining the fourth angle parameter between the fourth antenna element and the metasurface, wherein the first angle parameter is different from the fourth angle parameter. Step 7, S107, determining the phase distribution of the metasurface based on the first operating frequency band, the first angle parameter, and the fourth angle parameter. The beam transmission / reception direction of the fourth antenna element faces the metasurface, and the fourth angle parameter indicates the angle between the beam transmitted / received by the fourth antenna element and the first direction. Thus, the antenna designed by this method includes a first antenna element, a second antenna element, a third antenna element, a fourth antenna element, and a metasurface, with both the fourth antenna element and the first antenna element operating in the first operating frequency band.

[0131] When both the first and fourth antenna elements are receiving antennas or both are transmitting antennas, the efficiency of the antenna in receiving or transmitting beams in the first operating frequency band can be enhanced. For example, the antenna designed using this method is shown in Figure 10. Antenna 03A is a tri-band common-aperture transmitting antenna, including a first antenna element 0321a, a second antenna element 0322a, a third antenna element 0323a, a fourth antenna element 0324a, and a metasurface 031a. Similarly, the antenna designed using this method is shown in Figure 10. Antenna 03B is a tri-band common-aperture receiving antenna, including a first antenna element 0321b, a second antenna element 0322b, a third antenna element 0323b, a fourth antenna element 0324b, and a metasurface 031b.

[0132] When one of the first antenna element and the fourth antenna element is a receiving antenna and the other is a transmitting antenna, such an antenna is a tri-band common-aperture transceiver antenna. The antenna can simultaneously perform both receiving and transmitting functions in the first operating frequency band. For example, antenna 03 designed by this method is shown in Figure 11. Antenna 03A is a tri-band common-aperture transceiver antenna, including three transmitting elements: first antenna element 0321a, second antenna element 0322a, and third antenna element 0323a; one receiving element: fourth antenna element 0324a; and a metasurface 031a. For example, antenna 03B designed by this method is another tri-band common-aperture transceiver antenna, including three receiving elements: first antenna element 0321b, second antenna element 0322b, and third antenna element 0323b; one transmitting element: fourth antenna element 0324b; and a metasurface 031b.

[0133] In one possible implementation, the method can be further extended by adding antenna elements in other operating frequency bands. As shown in Figure 12, the method also includes the following step: Step 8, S108, determining the fifth angle parameter between the fifth antenna element and the metasurface based on the first operating frequency band, the second operating frequency band, and the fourth angle parameter. The beam transmission / reception direction of the fifth antenna element faces the metasurface. The fifth angle parameter indicates the angle between the beam transmitted / received by the fifth antenna element and the first direction. Thus, the antenna designed by this method includes a first antenna element, a second antenna element, a third antenna element, a fourth antenna element, a fifth antenna element, and a metasurface. The fourth antenna element and the first antenna element both operate in the first operating frequency band, and the second antenna element and the fourth antenna element both operate in the second operating frequency band.

[0134] It is understandable that when the antenna also includes a fifth antenna element, it is only necessary to ensure that the fifth beam transmitted and received by the fifth antenna element forms an angle θ between the first surface and the first direction. i5 With θ i1 θ i2 θi3 θ i4 They are all different; the fifth beam makes an angle θ between the second surface and the first direction. t5 With θ t1 θ t2 θ t3 θ t4 All are the same. To maintain the simplicity of the metasurface phase distribution and to ensure that θ... i5 With θ i2 Unlike the first antenna element, the fifth antenna element can share the same phase distribution metasurface as the fourth antenna element because the second antenna element already shares the same phase distribution metasurface. Therefore, the fifth angle parameter needs to be determined by the fourth angle parameter. For example, the fourth included angle θ... i4 and the fifth included angle θ i5 satisfy: The phase distribution φ(x) of the metasurface in the second direction x satisfies: Where k1 is the wavenumber of the first operating frequency band and k2 is the wavenumber of the second operating frequency band.

[0135] Understandably, although the fifth angular parameter is determined by the fourth angular parameter, the purpose is to ensure the simplicity of the metasurface phase distribution and to make θ i5 With θ i1 θ i2 θ i3 θ i4 They are all different. The function of the fifth antenna element is not necessarily related to the function of the fourth antenna element. The fourth and fifth antenna elements can both be transmitting elements, both be receiving elements, or one can be a transmitting element and the other a receiving element.

[0136] It is understandable that although the fifth antenna element and the second antenna element operate in the same frequency band, the functions of the fifth antenna element and the second antenna element are not necessarily related. The second antenna element and the fifth antenna element can both be transmitting elements, both be receiving elements, or one can be a transmitting element and the other a receiving element.

[0137] When both the second antenna element and the fifth antenna element are receiving antennas or both are transmitting antennas, the efficiency of the antenna in receiving or transmitting beams in the second operating frequency band can be enhanced.

[0138] For example, the antenna 03 designed by this method is shown in Figure 13. Antenna 03A is a tri-band common aperture transmitting antenna. Antenna 03A includes a first antenna element 0321a, a second antenna element 0322a, a third antenna element 0323a, a fourth antenna element 0324a, a fifth antenna element 0325a, and a metasurface 031a.

[0139] As an example, the antenna 03 designed by this method is shown in Figure 13. Antenna 03B is a tri-band common aperture receiving antenna. Antenna 03B includes a first antenna element 0321b, a second antenna element 0322b, a third antenna element 0323b, a fourth antenna element 0324b, a fifth antenna element 0325b, and a metasurface 031b.

[0140] As an example, the antenna 03 designed by this method is shown in Figure 14. Antenna 03A is a tri-band common aperture transceiver antenna. Antenna 03A includes four transmitting units: a first antenna element 0321a, a second antenna element 0322a, a third antenna element 0323a, and a fifth antenna element 0325a; a fourth antenna element 0324a; and a metasurface 031a.

[0141] As an example, the antenna 03 designed by this method is shown in Figure 14. Antenna 03B is a tri-band common aperture transceiver antenna. Antenna 03B includes four receiving units: a first antenna element 0321b, a second antenna element 0322b, a third antenna element 0323b, and a fifth antenna element 0325b; a fourth antenna element 0324b; and a metasurface 031b.

[0142] When one of the second antenna unit and the fifth antenna unit is a receiving antenna and the other is a transmitting antenna, such an antenna is a tri-band common aperture transceiver antenna, which can simultaneously achieve the functions of receiving and transmitting signals in both the first and second operating frequency bands.

[0143] As an example, the antenna 03 designed by this method is shown in Figure 15. Antenna 03A is a tri-band common aperture transceiver antenna. Antenna 03A includes four transmitting units: a first antenna element 0321a, a second antenna element 0322a, a third antenna element 0323a, and a fourth antenna element 0324a; a fifth antenna element 0325a; and a metasurface 031a.

[0144] As an example, the antenna 03 designed by this method is shown in Figure 15. Antenna 03B is a tri-band common aperture transceiver antenna. Antenna 03B includes four receiving units: a first antenna element 0321b, a second antenna element 0322b, a third antenna element 0323b, and a fourth antenna element 0324b; a fifth antenna element 0325b; and a metasurface 031b.

[0145] For example, the antenna 03 designed by this method is shown in Figure 16. Antenna 03A is a tri-band common aperture transceiver antenna. Antenna 03A includes three transmitting units: a first antenna element 0321a, a second antenna element 0322a, and a third antenna element 0323a; two receiving units: a fourth antenna element 0324a and a fifth antenna element 0325a; and a metasurface 031a.

[0146] As an example, the antenna 03 designed by this method is shown in Figure 16. Antenna 03B is a tri-band common aperture transceiver antenna. Antenna 03B includes three receiving units: a first antenna element 0321b, a second antenna element 0322b, and a third antenna element 0323b; two transmitting units: a fourth antenna element 0324b and a fifth antenna element 0325b; and a metasurface 031b.

[0147] To more clearly illustrate how the method provided in this application embodiment designs the antenna provided in this application embodiment, the method provided in this application embodiment will be described in conjunction with FIG17. For ease of explanation, the angle θ between the beams transmitted and received by all antenna elements on the second surface of the metasurface and the first direction z is used here. t All values ​​are 0, meaning that the beams transmitted and received by all antenna elements are perpendicular to the second surface of the metasurface. When discussing angular parameters, only the angle θ between the beams transmitted and received by the antenna elements and the first surface of the metasurface is considered. i .

[0148] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the operating frequency band containing the most antenna elements is designated as the first operating frequency band. When two operating frequency bands contain the same number of antenna elements, either one can be used as the first operating frequency band. In this embodiment, the operating frequency band containing the most antenna elements other than the first operating frequency band is designated as the second operating frequency band, and so on.

[0149] The following design, based on the flowchart shown in Figure 17, is a three-band common aperture transceiver antenna 03A as shown in Figure 16.

[0150] S201, Determine the operating frequency band requirements, including the number of operating frequency bands n, and the center frequency f of each operating frequency band. n Wavelength λ 0n wave number k n .

[0151] For example, antenna 03A in Figure 16 can operate in three frequency bands: band f1, band f2, and band f3, with corresponding wavelengths λ. 01 , λ 02 , λ 03 The corresponding wave numbers are k1, k2, and k3, respectively. Record the parameters, n = 3. Here, n is the number of operating frequency bands of the antenna.

[0152] S202, determine the first operating frequency band, determine the number of antenna elements m in the antenna, and let a = 0 and q = 1.

[0153] For example, based on the above example, antenna 03A in Figure 16 contains five antenna elements. The number of antenna elements operating in frequency band f1 and the second frequency band f2 are both two. Frequency band f1 is selected as the first operating frequency band, hereinafter referred to as "first operating frequency band f1". Frequency bands f2 and f3 are referred to as the second operating frequency band f2 and the third operating frequency band f3. Update and record the parameters: n = 3, m = 5, a = 0, q = 1. Where m is the number of antenna elements contained in the antenna. q is the number of the antenna element to be determined. a is used to count the number of loops.

[0154] For example, for antenna 03A shown in Figure 16, the first operating frequency band f1 has two antenna elements. The angle parameters of all antenna elements in antenna 03A can be determined in two groups. The first group is determined based on the angle parameters of the first antenna element 0321a, and the second group is determined based on the angle parameters of the fourth antenna element 0324a. In the first loop a=0, the angle parameters of all antenna elements in the first group can be determined. In the second loop a=1, the angle parameters of the antenna elements in the second group can be determined. It should be understood that "first group" and "first antenna element" only represent numbers, not fixed order. Grouping only requires that all antenna elements in the group have different operating frequencies. Based on this, since the first operating frequency band f1 has the most antenna elements, the number of antenna elements x in the first operating frequency band f1 is equal to the number of groups, and also equal to the maximum number of loops a+1.

[0155] S203, let p = 2.

[0156] For example, based on the above example, update and record the parameters: n=3, m=5, a=0, p=2, q=1. Here, p is the operating frequency band number of the antenna element whose angle parameters are currently being calculated.

[0157] It should be understood that "determining" includes both specification and calculation. In one implementation, all angle parameters are directly specified, ensuring that the angle parameters for different antenna elements are different. Since the angle parameters for all antenna elements are different, there is no need to determine them in groups. This implementation is denoted as Case 1.

[0158] In another implementation, the angle parameters of the antenna elements in the first operating frequency band are directly specified, while the angle parameters of other antenna elements are calculated from the angle parameters of the antenna elements in the same group within the first operating frequency band. Therefore, the operating frequency band number of the antenna element whose angle parameters need to be calculated should start from 2. This implementation is denoted as Operating Condition 2. For example, it can be achieved through the relational formula... The angle parameter θ of the first antenna element 0321a operating in the first operating frequency band i1 Determine the angular parameter θ of the second antenna element 0322a operating in the second operating frequency band. i2 .

[0159] S204, determine the q-th angle parameter of the q-th antenna in the first operating frequency band, and let q = q + 1.

[0160] For example, based on the example above, q = 1 at this time, so this step specifies the first angle parameter θ1 of the first antenna 0321a of the first operating frequency band f1. Update and record the parameters: n = 3, m = 5, a = 0, p = 2, q = 2.

[0161] S205, determine if q > m. If yes, execute S211; otherwise, execute S206.

[0162] For example, based on the above example, q = 2, m = 5, which does not satisfy q > m. That is, the current antenna element number to be determined is less than or equal to the total number of antenna elements, and the angle parameters of some antenna elements are still undetermined, so S206 is executed. Specifically, the antenna unit currently to be confirmed is the second antenna element 0322a (the q-th antenna element). The angle parameters of the fifth antenna element 0325a (the m-th antenna element) are still undetermined. The angle parameters of all antenna elements in the antenna have not been completely determined, so calculation needs to continue.

[0163] S206, determine the q-th angle parameter of the q-th antenna in the p-th operating frequency band, and let p = p+1 and q = q+1.

[0164] For example, based on the example above, p = 2 and q = 2. Therefore, this step calculates the second angle parameter θ2 of the second antenna 0322a in the second operating frequency band f2. Update and record the parameters: n = 3, m = 5, a = 0, p = 3, q ​​= 3.

[0165] S207, determine if q > m. If yes, execute S211; otherwise, execute S208.

[0166] For example, based on the above example, q = 3, m = 5, which does not satisfy q > m. That is to say, the antenna element to be confirmed is the third antenna element 0323a, and the angle parameters of the fifth antenna element 0325a have not yet been confirmed, so S208 is executed.

[0167] S208, determine if p > n. If yes, execute S209; otherwise, execute S206.

[0168] For example, based on the above example, p=3, n=3, which does not satisfy p>n. That is to say, the maximum number of antenna elements in the group is three (i.e., n, corresponding to n different operating frequency bands). The antenna element to be confirmed is the third antenna element 0323a. The angle parameters of the third antenna element 0323a have not yet been confirmed, so S206 is executed.

[0169] S206, determine the q-th angle parameter of the q-th antenna in the p-th operating frequency band, and let p = p+1 and q = q+1.

[0170] For example, based on the example above, p = 3 and q = 3. Therefore, this step calculates the third angle parameter θ3 of the third antenna 0323a in the third operating frequency band f3. Update and record the parameters: n = 3, m = 5, a = 0, p = 4, q = 4.

[0171] S207, determine if q > m. If yes, execute S211; otherwise, execute S208.

[0172] For example, based on the above example, currently q=4 and m=5, which does not satisfy q>m. That is to say, the antenna element to be confirmed is the fourth antenna element 0324a. The angle parameters of the last antenna element, namely the fifth antenna element 0325a, have not yet been confirmed, so S208 is executed.

[0173] S208, determine if p > n. If yes, execute S209; otherwise, execute S206.

[0174] For example, based on the above example, currently p = 4, n = 3, satisfying p > n. That is to say, the antenna element to be confirmed is the fourth antenna element 0324a. The angle parameters of the three antenna elements in the first group have been confirmed, so S209 is executed.

[0175] S209, let a=a+1.

[0176] For example, based on the above example, update parameter a = 0 + 1 = 1. That is, the angle parameters of all antenna elements in this group have been confirmed. The angle parameters of the next group of antenna elements can now be confirmed. Record the parameters: n = 3, m = 5, a = 1, p = 4, q = 4.

[0177] S210, determine if q > a × n. If yes, execute S203; otherwise, execute S211.

[0178] For example, based on the above example, q = 4, a × n = 3, satisfying q > a × n. That is to say, the antenna element to be confirmed is the fourth antenna element 0324a. The angle parameters of the first group of antenna elements have all been confirmed, and the second (a+1) loop is performed, so S203 is executed.

[0179] S203, let p = 2.

[0180] For example, based on the example above, update the parameters to p = 2. That is, start determining the angle parameters of the second set of antennas, and record the parameters: n = 3, m = 5, a = 1, p = 2, q = 4.

[0181] S204, determine the q-th angle parameter of the q-th antenna in the first operating frequency band, and let q = q + 1.

[0182] For example, based on the example above, q = 4, therefore this step specifies the fourth angle parameter θ4 of the fourth antenna 0324a of the first operating frequency band f1. Update and record the parameters: n = 3, m = 5, a = 0, p = 2, q = 5.

[0183] S205, determine if q > m. If yes, execute S211; otherwise, execute S206.

[0184] For example, based on the above example, q = 5, m = 5, which does not satisfy q > m. That is to say, the antenna element to be confirmed is the fifth antenna element 0325a. The angle parameters of the fifth antenna element 0325a have not yet been confirmed, so S206 is executed.

[0185] S206, determine the q-th angle parameter of the q-th antenna in the p-th operating frequency band, and let p = p+1 and q = q+1.

[0186] For example, based on the example above, p = 2, q = 5, therefore this step calculates the second angle parameter θ5 of the fifth antenna 0325a in the second operating frequency band f2. After the calculation is completed, the parameters are updated and recorded: n = 3, m = 5, a = 0, p = 3, q ​​= 6.

[0187] S207, determine if q > m. If yes, execute S211; otherwise, execute S208.

[0188] For example, based on the above example, q = 6, m = 5, satisfying q > m. That is to say, the antenna element to be confirmed is the sixth antenna element. The angle parameters of the fifth antenna element 0325a have been confirmed, which means that the angle parameters of all antenna elements in antenna 03A have been confirmed, so S211 is executed.

[0189] S211, calculate the phase distribution of the metasurface.

[0190] For example, based on the above example, the phase distribution of the metasurface in antenna 03A determined in operating condition 1 is as follows: The phase distribution of the metasurface in antenna 03A, as determined in operating condition 2, is as follows:

[0191] It is understood that the antenna design methods described in Figures 17 and 12 are the same. When this method is shown in other flows or flowcharts, it remains within the scope of protection of this application.

[0192] To provide a more intuitive understanding of the above examples, this application provides specific frequency band and angle parameters, and designs a three-band common-aperture transceiver antenna 03A as shown in Figure 16, in conjunction with Figure 17. The included angles provided in the embodiments of this application refer to the angle between the transceiver beam and the first direction z (i.e., the normal to the metasurface). For example, the angle θ between the first antenna element 0321a and the first direction z in antenna 03A in Figure 16 is... i1 Let θ represent an acute angle with a positive value. Following this rule, the angle between the fourth antenna element 0324a in antenna 03A of Figure 16 and the first direction z is an obtuse angle. In the embodiments of this application, the complementary angle of this obtuse angle is also used to represent the angle between the fourth antenna element 0324a and the first direction. Furthermore, since the direction of the transmitted and received beams of the first antenna element 0321a is in the z-direction, which is opposite to the direction of the transmitted and received beams of the fourth antenna element 0324a, the angle θ between the fourth antenna element 0324a and the first direction is... i4 It represents an acute angle with a negative value.

[0193] For example, as shown in Figure 16, antenna 03A is a tri-band common-aperture transceiver antenna. Antenna 03A includes three transmitting units: a first antenna element 0321a, a second antenna element 0322a, and a third antenna element 0323a; two receiving units: a fourth antenna element 0324a and a fifth antenna element 0325a; and a metasurface 031a. The first antenna element 0321a and the fourth antenna element 0324a operate in the first operating frequency band, the second antenna element 0322a and the fifth antenna element 0325a operate in the second operating frequency band, and the third antenna element 0323a operates in the third operating frequency band. The center frequency of the first operating frequency band is f1 = 20 GHz, the center frequency of the second operating frequency band is f2 = 30 GHz, and the center frequency of the third operating frequency band is f3 = 15 GHz. The angle θ between the transmitted and received beams of all antenna elements on the second surface of the metasurface and the first direction z is... t All are 0. The wavelength λ0 of all operating frequency bands and the wavenumber k1 corresponding to the first operating frequency band can be calculated:

[0194] Specify the first angle parameter θ i1 =20°, fourth angle parameter θ i4 = -40°.

[0195] Therefore, the phase distribution of the metasurface is: at this time,

[0196] It should be understood that θ here i1 and θ i4 The value of θ is not limited to that in this embodiment. i1 and θ i4 Assuming that θi1 and θi4 are different, any angle value in the range (-90°, 90°) can be taken.

[0197] In one possible implementation, the antenna includes a transmitting antenna and a receiving antenna across all its operating frequency bands. This allows the antenna to perform both transmitting and receiving functions across all its operating frequency bands.

[0198] For example, as shown in Figure 18, antenna 03 is a dual-band common-aperture transceiver antenna. Antenna 03 includes two transmitting units: a first antenna element 0321 and a second antenna element 0322; two receiving units: a fourth antenna element 0324 and a fifth antenna element 0325; and a metasurface 031. The first antenna element 0321 and the fourth antenna element 0324 operate in the first operating frequency band, while the second antenna element 0322 and the fifth antenna element 0325 operate in the second operating frequency band. The center frequency of the first operating frequency band is f1 = 20 GHz, and the center frequency of the second operating frequency band is f2 = 30 GHz. The angle θ between the beams transmitted and received by all antenna elements on the second surface of the metasurface and the first direction z is... t All are 0.

[0199] Specify the first angle parameter θ i1 =20°, fourth angle parameter θ i4 = -40°. Therefore, the phase distribution of the metasurface is: At this time, θ i2 =13.18°, θ i5 = -25.37°.

[0200] For example, as shown in Figure 19, antenna 03 is a tri-band common-aperture transceiver antenna. Antenna 03 includes three transmitting units: a first antenna element 0321, a second antenna element 0322, and a third antenna element 0323; three receiving units: a fourth antenna element 0324, a fifth antenna element 0325, and a sixth antenna element 0326; and a metasurface 031. The first antenna element 0321 and the fourth antenna element 0324 operate in the first operating frequency band; the second antenna element 0322 and the fifth antenna element 0325 operate in the second operating frequency band; and the third antenna element 0323 and the sixth antenna element 0326 operate in the third operating frequency band. The center frequency of the first operating frequency band is f1 = 20 GHz, the center frequency of the second operating frequency band is f2 = 30 GHz, and the center frequency of the third operating frequency band is f3 = 15 GHz. The angle θ between the transmitted and received beams of all antenna elements on the second surface of the metasurface and the first direction z is... tAll are 0.

[0201] Specify the first angle parameter θ i1 =20°, fourth angle parameter θ i4 = -40°. Therefore, the phase distribution of the metasurface is: at this time,

[0202] That is, θ i2 =13.18°, θ i2 =13.18°, θ i5 = -25.37°, θ i5 = -58.99°.

[0203] In one possible implementation, the phase distribution of the metasurface is φ(x). The phase distribution of φ(x) is all Overlay. For example, as shown in Figure 20, Through and The phases of the two metasurfaces are superimposed.

[0204] It is understandable that φ n (x)=-k n xsinθ in and These are two expressions of the phase distribution of a metasurface, when k n and θ in When they are the same, the metasurface phase distributions corresponding to these two formulas are the same.

[0205] In one possible implementation, the phase distribution of the metasurface is φ(x), and the corresponding metasurface can be designed based on this phase distribution. For example, as shown in Figure 21, the phase distribution of the metasurface is a continuous function φ(x), corresponding to a continuous phase distribution map of the metasurface. Quantizing the continuous function φ(x) yields a discrete phase distribution map of the metasurface. Mapping the discrete phases in the discrete distribution map of the metasurface to metasurface units with different structures completes the structural design of the metasurface.

[0206] The methods provided in the embodiments of this application have been described above. Furthermore, the embodiments of this application also provide an antenna design apparatus for implementing the functions described in the above method embodiments. This antenna design apparatus includes modules for executing any of the methods provided in the embodiments of this application. It is understood that, in order to implement the above functions, the antenna design apparatus includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0207] This application embodiment can divide the antenna design device into functional modules according to the above method embodiment. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be noted that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods.

[0208] In one possible implementation, as shown in FIG22, the antenna design apparatus 04 provided in this embodiment includes a processing unit 041 and a transceiver unit 042. Referring to FIG12, the transceiver unit 042 is used to execute steps S101, S104, and S106 of the antenna design method to acquire the required parameters / data. The transceiver unit 042 is also used, together with the processing unit 041, to execute steps S102, S103, S105, S107, and S108 of the antenna design method. The processing unit 041 obtains other data based on the data acquired by the transceiver unit 042 and outputs it through the transceiver unit 042. This antenna design apparatus 04 can be used to implement any of the above-described antenna design methods.

[0209] In some embodiments, the antenna design device 04 may further include a storage unit (not shown in FIG22) for storing program instructions and data.

[0210] In some embodiments, the transceiver unit 042, also referred to as a transceiver module, is used to implement sending and / or receiving functions. The transceiver unit 042 may consist of a transceiver circuit, a transceiver, a transceiver unit, or a communication interface.

[0211] In some embodiments, the transceiver unit 042 may include a receiving unit and a transmitting unit, respectively configured to perform the acquisition and output steps performed by the antenna design device 04 in the above method embodiments, and / or other processes to support the technology described herein. The processing unit may be configured to perform the processing steps performed by the first antenna design device 04 or the second antenna design device 04 in the above method embodiments, and / or other processes to support the technology described herein.

[0212] In this application, the antenna design device 04 can be presented in an integrated manner by dividing it into various functional units. Here, "unit" can refer to an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a circuit, a processor and memory that executes one or more software or firmware programs, integrated logic circuits, and / or other devices that can provide the above functions.

[0213] In some embodiments, when the antenna design device 04 in FIG22 is a chip or chip system, the function / implementation process of the transceiver unit 042 can be implemented through the input / output port (or communication interface) of the chip or chip system, and the function / implementation process of the processing unit 041 can be implemented through the processor (or processing circuit) of the chip or chip system. Since the antenna design device 04 provided in this embodiment can perform the above method, the technical effects it can obtain can be referred to the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0214] As a possible product form, the antenna design device 04 described in this application embodiment can be implemented using one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), controllers, state machines, gate logic, discrete hardware components, any other suitable circuits, or any combination of circuits capable of performing the various functions described throughout this application.

[0215] Although this application has been described herein in conjunction with various embodiments, those skilled in the art, by reviewing the accompanying drawings, disclosure, and appended claims, will understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments in carrying out the claimed application. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other components or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit can implement several functions listed in the claims. While different dependent claims may recite certain measures, this does not mean that these measures cannot be combined to produce good results.

[0216] Although this application has been described in conjunction with specific features and embodiments, it is obvious that various modifications and combinations can be made thereto without departing from the scope of this application. Accordingly, this specification and drawings are merely illustrative descriptions of the application as defined by the appended claims, and are considered to cover any and all modifications, variations, combinations, or equivalents within the scope of this application. Clearly, those skilled in the art can make various alterations and modifications to this application without departing from its scope. Thus, if such modifications and modifications fall within the scope of the claims and their equivalents, this application is also intended to include such modifications and modifications.

[0217] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An antenna, characterized in that, include: At least two antenna elements and a metasurface, wherein the antenna elements operate in the same aperture plane; At least two of the antenna elements operate at different frequency bands; Furthermore, the beam transmission and reception direction of the antenna element is oriented towards the metasurface.

2. The antenna according to claim 1, characterized in that, The metasurface includes a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other; the first surface faces the beam transmission and reception direction of the antenna element; The phase distribution of the metasurface satisfies the following condition: when beams of different frequencies propagate from the first surface to the second surface with different incident deflection angles, the outgoing deflection angles become the same. Wherein, the incident deflection angle and the exit deflection angle are the angles between the beam and the first direction, and the first direction is perpendicular to the metasurface.

3. The antenna according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The metasurface includes a first surface and a second surface; the first surface faces the beam transmission and reception direction of the antenna element. The phase distribution of the metasurface satisfies the following condition: when beams of different frequencies propagate from the second surface to the first surface with the same incident deflection angle, the outgoing deflection angle becomes different. Wherein, the incident deflection angle and the exit deflection angle are the angles between the beam and the first direction, and the first direction is perpendicular to the metasurface.

4. The antenna according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The at least two antenna elements include a first antenna element and a second antenna element; The first antenna element operates in the first operating frequency band; the second antenna element operates in the second operating frequency band. The first beam transmitted and received by the first antenna element forms a first angle θ between the first surface and the first direction. i1 Wherein, the first direction is perpendicular to the metasurface; The second beam transmitted and received by the second antenna element forms a second angle θ between the first surface and the first direction. i2 ; The first included angle θ i1 The included angle θ with the second i2 Different, and θ i1 ∈(-90°, 90°), θ i2 ∈(-90°, 90°).

5. The antenna according to claim 4, characterized in that, The phase distribution φ(x) of the metasurface in the x-direction satisfies: Wherein, k1 is the wave number of the first operating frequency band, and the x-direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

6. The antenna according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The first beam forms a third angle θ with the second surface and the first direction. t1 ; The second beam forms a fourth angle θ with the first direction on the second surface. t2 ; The third included angle θ t1 The included angle θ with the fourth t2 The same, and θ t1 ∈(-90°, 90°), θ t2 ∈(-90°, 90°).

7. The antenna according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first included angle θ i1 and the second included angle θ i2 satisfy: The third included angle θ t1 and the fourth included angle θ t2 satisfy: i t1 =θ t2 Where k1 is the wavenumber of the first operating frequency band, λ 02 This refers to the wavelength of the second operating frequency band.

8. The antenna according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, The first beam is parallel to the first direction on the second surface; the second beam is parallel to the first direction on the second surface.

9. The antenna according to any one of claims 6-8, characterized in that, Also includes: Third antenna element; The third antenna unit operates in a different frequency band than the first antenna unit and the second antenna unit; The third beam transmitted and received by the third antenna element forms a fifth angle θ between the first surface and the first direction. i3 ; The third beam forms a sixth angle θ with the first direction on the second surface. t3 ; The fifth included angle θ i3 Angle θ with the first i1 The second included angle θ i2 different; The sixth included angle θ t3 The angle θ with the third t1 and the fourth included angle θ t2 The same, and θ i3 ∈(-90°, 90°), θ t3 ∈(-90°, 90°).

10. The antenna according to any one of claims 6-9, characterized in that, Also includes: Fourth antenna element; The fourth antenna unit operates in the same frequency band as the first antenna unit. The fourth beam transmitted and received by the fourth antenna element forms a seventh angle θ between the first surface and the first direction. i4 ; The fourth beam forms an eighth angle θ with the first direction on the second surface. t4 ; The seventh included angle θ i4 Angle θ with the first i1 The second included angle θ i2 different; The eighth included angle θ t4 The angle θ with the third t1 and the fourth included angle θ t2 The same, and θ i4 ∈(-90°, 90°), θ t4 ∈(-90°, 90°).

11. The antenna according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first antenna element is used to transmit the first beam; the fourth antenna element is used to receive the fourth beam.

12. A communication module, characterized in that, It includes at least one of a radio frequency front-end and a processor, and an antenna as described in any one of claims 1-11.

13. An electronic device, characterized in that, Includes the communication module as described in claim 12.

14. An antenna design method, characterized in that, The antenna includes a first antenna element, a second antenna element, and a metasurface; the method includes the following steps: Obtain the first operating frequency band of the first antenna unit, the second operating frequency band of the second antenna unit, and the first angle parameter between the first antenna unit and the metasurface; Based on the first operating frequency band, the second operating frequency band, and the first angle parameter, the second angle parameter between the second antenna element and the metasurface is determined; The phase distribution of the metasurface is determined based on the first operating frequency band and the first angle parameter. Wherein, the first operating frequency band is different from the second operating frequency band; the beam transmission and reception directions of the first antenna unit and the second antenna unit are oriented toward the metasurface; the first angle parameter is used to indicate the angle between the beam transmitted and received by the first antenna unit and the first direction, the second angle parameter is used to indicate the angle between the beam transmitted and received by the second antenna unit and the first direction, and the first direction is perpendicular to the metasurface.

15. The antenna design method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The phase distribution φ(x) of the metasurface in the x-direction satisfies: Wherein, k1 is the wave number of the first operating frequency band, and the x-direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

16. The antenna design method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that, The antenna further includes a third antenna element; the third antenna element operates in a third operating frequency band; the method further includes the following steps: Obtain the third operating frequency band; Based on the first operating frequency band, the third operating frequency band, and the first angle parameter, the third angle parameter between the third antenna element and the metasurface is determined; The third operating frequency band is different from the first and second operating frequency bands; the beam transmission and reception direction of the third antenna element is oriented towards the metasurface; the third angle parameter is used to indicate the angle between the beam transmitted and received by the third antenna element and the first direction.

17. The antenna design method according to any one of claims 14-16, characterized in that, The antenna further includes a fourth antenna element; the fourth antenna element operates in the first operating frequency band; the method further includes the following steps: Obtain the fourth angle parameter between the fourth antenna element and the metasurface; the first angle parameter is different from the fourth angle parameter. The phase distribution of the metasurface is determined based on the first operating frequency band, the first angle parameter, and the fourth angle parameter. The beam transmission and reception direction of the fourth antenna element is oriented towards the metasurface; the fourth angle parameter is used to indicate the angle between the beam transmitted and received by the fourth antenna element and the first direction.

18. The antenna design method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The antenna further includes a fifth antenna element; the fifth antenna element operates in the second operating frequency band; the method further includes the following steps: Based on the first operating frequency band, the second operating frequency band, and the fourth angle parameter, the fifth angle parameter between the fifth antenna element and the metasurface is determined; The beam transmission and reception direction of the fifth antenna element is oriented towards the metasurface; the fifth angle parameter is used to indicate the angle between the beam transmitted and received by the fifth antenna element and the first direction.

19. An antenna design device, characterized in that, Includes modules for performing the method as described in any one of claims 14-18.

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